The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is offering Free Fishing Days coming up June 7 and 8. Fishing licenses, trout stamps or tags from trout parks will not be needed on those days, in order to encourage people to get out and enjoy the abundant fishing areas our state has to offer.

Of course, normal state regulations, such as size and quantity of the catch-and-keep fish remain in effect. Certain private fishing areas may require permits, however, and trespassing regulations are still enforced on private and regulated properties.

Every county in Missouri offers public fishing areas for all to enjoy. Outdoor activities, such as fishing, boost the state’s economy and provide a great pastime for young and old alike. Fishing generates more than $1 billion for local communities across the state, and supports thousands of jobs.

For more information about public fishing areas, regulations, permits and details on how to identify different species of fish, visit the MDC website at mdc.mo.gov.

Always feel free to contact me throughout the year with any comments, questions, or issues by calling my office at (573) 751-5713 or by visiting my website at www.senate.mo.gov/brown.

Thank you for reading this and for your participation in state government.